Australian hotels top for travellers

Australia is top for hotels, according to a new list, attracting hoards of tourists on Australian visas. Two hotels in the country have been named on this year's world's best new hotel list, from Travel and Leisure magazine.

On Hamilton Island, off the Queensland coast of Australia, Qualia is tipped to be the country's first seven-star hotel. This year, the hotel reached the fifth position in the coveted top-ten list, according to News.com.au. Qualia was nominated in the best beach hotel category, and landed its award because of its modern, airy architecture and the chef’s eclectic combinations of local bushfood.

The Southern Ocean Lodge on Kangaroo Island, South Australia, made 28th position, having been nominated for its commitment to sustainable approaches. The lodge prides itself on its “outstanding environmental credentials”.

Australia has won the popularity contests for those on Australian tourist visas and Electronic Travel Visas (ETA), with Melbourne city proving to be the favourite.

An ETA visa is required for all short-term visitors travelling to Australia. Visa Bureau’s automated application process means that in most cases, they can be granted in seconds.